This episode begins with a lighthearted story about outdoor walks and ends with a powerful lesson on nonverbal communication. Kristi explores how a small, intentional gesture—like a nod—can change the emotional tone of an interaction and deepen connection. Whether you're walking past a stranger or speaking to a jury, your breath, presence, and micro-movements tell a story. In this episode, you'll learn how to use breath, facial expression and tone to support your full nonverbal communication strategy so your interactions with jurors feel calm, credible, and human.
In this episode, you'll learn:
How breath anchors your nonverbal cues and helps you stay grounded as you communicate
Why a single nod, paired with steady breathing, creates subconscious rapport
The neuroscience behind mirroring and how jurors (or any audience) naturally respond to your presence
The difference between authentic and performative nodding
A quick self-check exercise to sync your breath with your gestures
Key Takeaway:
Connection doesn't require grand gestures. With a steady breath and a simple nod, you can make your listener feel seen, respected, and safe—whether you're in conversation, on a walk, or in front of a jury.
Favorite moment:
"When paired with calm eye contact and a steady breath, your nod helps your listener feel you're with them—not above them. That's the kind of interaction that builds trust."
Links & Resources:
Dan Harris' on-screen panic attack: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qULQ6Qum3P0
Dan Harris' TEDTalk excerpt: https://www.facebook.com/reel/1379570276542029
Want more?
👉 Get weekly tips and techniques delivered to your inbox. Subscribe to "The Foster Files" Newsletter: https://www.fostervoicestudio.com/contact
👉 Follow me online for behind-the-scenes voice tips, mindset shifts, and strategies to help you lead with your voice in and out of court:
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/fostervoicestudio/
If this episode helped you, share it with a colleague who's ready to stop performing and start connecting.
And don't forget to subscribe to Foster Your Voice Podcast — new episodes every week to help you communicate with purpose, on purpose.
